MNAJDRA TEMPLES

Mnajdra sits tucked in a hollow in the cliffs on Malta’s southern coast. The site is probably the most atmospheric of all of Malta’s temples, as it lies in an isolated position on a rugged stretch of coast overlooking the isle of Filfla.

Mnajdra is a complex site consisting of three temples overlooking an oval forecourt. The first and oldest temple dates back to 3600-3200 BC, while the most impressive of the temples is the third, constructed between 3150-2500 BC. This temple is perhaps the finest surviving on the Islands. The masonry here shows intricate knowledge of building techniques and excellent workmanship. The middle temple was the last to be built and was inserted between the other two, set at a higher level. The Lower Temple has a particular astronomical alignment and at the Equinox, (the 20th March and the 22nd September), the rays of the sun pass strategically through specific areas of the temple.